Nice small, quiet, clean park, just outside of town, right off the 101(but not too close)…read more Staff friendly and helpful, spaces are close but situated nicely, covered with , ours did require some leveling, hook-ups in good working order. There are a few long termers, not a problem for us. No store on premise (I like to get a piece of memorabilia i.e. sticker, t-shirt from parks we visit) we ended up at Walmart in town to replenish some condiments. All in all a very nice welcoming park for us, we look forward to staying at many more times.

i have been living full time at this park up until a month or so ago, The staff is extremely…read moredisrespectful and for 2100 dollars a month I believe that there are far better places to stay at. They have cult like tendencies there management will black ball you from other parks simply because she dose not like you.

This was our first time camping, and overall it was a great experience. The campground entrance is…read moresmall and narrow, only allowing one vehicle at a time to pass in either direction, but it was manageable. We reserved campsite #13, and the drive leading up to it was very pleasant. We checked in with the campground host at the end of the road, he was very friendly and gave us helpful tips about nearby trails. One thing we didn't realize beforehand is that you have to walk from the parking spot up to the campsite. It's not a long walk, and it wasn't difficult for us since we packed light, but it's something to keep in mind if you're bringing large or heavy gear. The area is well shaded and isn't connected with other campsites. The restroom was conveniently located near the parking area and was clean. There was also a food storage box nearby, which we used at night. We didn't notice other campers using it, but since it was our first time camping, we followed general safety advice we found online. The campsite itself was spacious enough for two tents, ours was about 11x7 feet, and still had plenty of room. Firewood bundles were available for purchase from the camp host for $10 each, or you can bring your own. This site is conveniently located near two of the three trailheads, which made exploring easy. We didn't see much wildlife during our stay, but we did spot some birds, a coyote, and a few lizards. Insects weren't much of an issue, though there were quite a few caterpillars dropping from the trees. We did not experience any bears or mountain lions at night. The campground is also a short drive from Morro Bay, where we went fishing and grabbed lunch. Overall, it was a wonderful campground and a perfect place for our first camping trip.

Beautiful views. Morro rock in the background. Very challenging hike. Up to 1700 elevation.read more

After recently retiring and not taken a vacation since my husband and I got married over 14 years…read moreago, we looked forward to a long awaited vacation. We selected the Cambria, Pismo Beach area. The KOA located in Santa Margarita offered the simple amenities that we were seeking. We booked from August 25th to August 29th, 2025. Upon arrival, the campground was as promised. (someone online had indicated that there was a trash bee problem, so in anticipation of that, we purchased a trap) After unloading our vehicle, I went to use the Ladies room. I opened the door and caught a quick glimpse of a rodent-thinking it might be a rat, although I did not see it for more then two seconds. The following day, I asked my husband to go with me and check it out. When we opened the door, we immediately saw the rat-this time, getting a good look at it. We reported it to the office and Michele, the clerk, responded immediately, sending the maintenance guy out. A few minutes later, I saw him leaving the restroom area, I asked him if he was taking care of the rat problem. His response was "I did not see an indication of a rat problem." Moments later, my husband overheard that same man and another man speak of getting a trap for the restroom. I was hopeful that they would take care of it asap. The following day, I opened the lady's restroom door, noticing a huge gap at the top of the door (about 2") which would allow for a rat to enter. I did not observe any traps set. I did find rat droppings on the counter, near the sink. Which we snapped a photo of. Maintenance was driving by, and I asked them about the plan for catching the rat. The man who, the very day before had suggested a trap, said that "there was no evidence of a rat." When I told him there was rat droppings on the counter, he said that he could put poison down. I agreed, even though we had our three dogs with us. (they remained on leash the entire time and were safe) The poison was never put down, so we again went down to the office. A woman was standing on the porch, turned to the cashier, asking "when does "23 check out"? The 29th? OK" Clearly she was inquiring about our unit, although we had never met. She turned to me, and I introduced myself. She interrupted me and abruptly asked "What is it you want? "What do you want from me? Everyone wants money, do you want a refund?" At that point, I wanted to present the problem to her and discuss a plan to resolve it. She continually interrupted me, over spoke and talked in a condescending tone. Clearly, she wanted to make her point over listening to my concerns. She said that "rats could get in because they leave the door propped open, did you leave the door propped open?" I was appalled at her accusatory tone. I would never leave a door propped open while using the restroom. I told her so. At this point, she indicated that 'There was no evidence of a rat." (clearly this is a predisposed "go to" comment when people have a complaint of rats) After seeing the picture of the rat droppings, she hammered me about where I saw the rat. Her tone continued to be disrespectful and condescending. When I called her on it, she placed her hands on her hips and said "REALLY? REALLY?" My husband intervened with the conversation. She suggested that she would lock the door to the lady's room. Since we were the only campers in the area, I mentioned that I would continue to use the men's restroom, which I did, with my husband being a lookout for me. The following day, a van drove up and two people got out. One being Karen, the owner, and another lady wearing a KOA Uniform. Karen could not wait to inform us that they had "disinfected the lady's room and thoroughly cleaned it and it was now open." I asked, "was there a trap set?" No, she responded. I then asked if they had killed the rat? Again, her response was 'no'. She diverted to the questions of 'where did you see that rat?" I explained to her again exactly where the rat was. My husband confirmed the location. Since we were leaving in the morning, clearly this was damage control and of no benefit to us. She also suggested that it was not a rat we saw at all, but likely a possum. Seriously? Either way, to ignore it was not resolving the issue. I know what possum and rats look like. The woman in the uniform agreed with me, adding that "the toilet brush had been chewed, so it must be a rat." There are certain expectations when you visit an establishment. Rats in the bathroom are not on the list. Further, when an owner is presented with a problem, I would expect that owner to offer a solution. Locking the bathroom door was not what I had in mind. This was not an acceptable solution. My reason for writing this is to inform others of how this campground is managed. To her, it is all about money. Not about the safety or wellbeing of your family. Before you book with this location, take this review seriously.

Place is so perfect for motocamping. Ms Michelle was so awesome and accommodating. We got the best…read morespot for 8 people with full of shade. We will definitely come back here for a longer stay. Highly recommend Koa campground.

Best deal for natural hot springs on the Central Coast. All day pass for only $10/adult ($8/…read moreseniors and kids). Water flows continuously so no need for chlorine. Strong sulphur smell and algae, just like hanging out at Yellowstone NP. In fact the receptionist said their water is same underwater stream flowing from Yellowstone. We stopped by for an hour on a Tuesday so largely had place to ourselves plus 2 other regulars. Two pools connected to larger pool and a smaller standalone pool overlooking lake. 3 bathrooms for changing, with one shower. Met the owner Norman Franklin (he says he's 7th generation descendant of Benjamin Franklin). Surrounding area not much to look at, can bring own snacks and food to bbq. I didn't know about the hot springs mud so will definitely be back next time I'm in area!

This a local experience. What Yelp would categorize as "local flavor." It was a fun afternoon with…read morethe kids. The water coming out of the pipes is probably 101, but the pool is large so most of the water is around 85-90. There's a sulfur smell because it's water from a natural hot spring. The pool is gravel at the bottom and yes there is some algae. Some ducks joined in on the fun and started swimming in the pool at one point. I took some extra mud from a nice couple who had leftovers and made myself a mud mask. The kids had a blast playing with pool noodles. If you pulled onto the dirt road and saw the casual, rustic sign, kept going, parked in the dirt lot, walked in and got pissed because you didn't get a five star spa experience for $10, that's your bad.

Morro Bay is home...we'll at least where my heart is. I lived here for a number of years before…read moremoving to Tennessee. Still one of my most favorite places/beaches in the world! I absolutely love it when the fog rolls into the bay. Not so good for tanning, but peaceful for sure. I got to sit on the beach and listen to the waves my last day here with the moisture of the fog on my face, my last day here

It's a big NO from me! Super small campsites, no enforcement at all; one side of me at a tent site…read morewas a huge family with their big RV's and the other side had noisy loud people talking loud until midnight. Only plus is that it's next to the ocean but the entire city is next to the ocean so if you want a nice comfy stay, this isn't it. Then I drove to the other campground, Morro Bay campground , and had the same situation over there campsites on top of each other, so I just went back to the Strand and packed up my stuff and left.. one of the worst campgrounds I have ever encountered. 2 stars because the park aide was nice.

So pretty and peaceful. Very nice to walk around and look at tidepools and wildlife.read more

Love this beach so much! Go here every time we visit friends, relaxed beach with great views…read more Bathrooms are just okay but close to the beach which is very convenient. Parking lot can be busy but wow I love this beach!

we love naciemiento we go every two weeks during the summer and the pine knoll sites are great and…read morea short walk to the water. All the staff are very friendly and look forward to our next trip

Booked one of the cabins for a long weekend with some friends for a relaxing retreat from the city…read more This place exceeded all expectations. From the start, the staff was friendly, helpful, and attentive. The manager, Layla, personally greeted us at check in and gave us a lot of great advice for the local area (where to eat, rent boats, etc). Whenever we stopped by the main office on our way in or out, she remembered my name and checked in to make sure everything was going great. We didn't run into any real issues, but I could tell they would have diligently solved them. Once we got to the cabin, the breathtaking view of the lake from the cabin and balconies was so serene. There was even a little private beach (only about 20 feet long) which we share with a few of our resort neighbors but was mostly empty. Perfect to dip our feet in the water and jump on the boogie board -- literally 2 minute walk from our balcony. The food options are a little limited, but the remote nature is one of the perks of this place, so I can't complain. What I ate from the local pizza joint and grocery was all tasty. The kitchen was well stocked with cooking and eating utensils so you could definitely take care of yourself with ease. The beds were comfortable and AC strong (both musts for me). Overall I can't really think of anything I'd change. Except maybe staying 2 nights longer.

Beautiful campground. We stayed in the lower lot, and were pleasantly surprised by the quick beach…read moreaccess, the large number of clean bathrooms and showers and the trees and greenery that made the campsites feel semi-private. We even were treated to a fantastic ranger talk in the campsite amphitheater, complete with a fire pit and a well spoken lesson about sharks. Both the ranger at check in and the ranger speaking were wonderful, and they made sure the kids had Junior Ranger books for the event. The location is superb, right down the street from the Elephant Seal Rookery and Hearst Castle. A heads up, we reserved a 25 foot campsite for our travel trailer, which is appropriate based on its length. If you're pulling a vehicle, I recommend reserving a 35 foot. Getting both the trailer and our vehicle in our site side by side was tight. Not impossible, but do yourself a favor and get a little extra room if you can. We will be back, only complaint is not staying longer.

Lower creek has no view but is somewhat out of the wind. In some seasons that may be a bad thing…read morebecause that may mean mosquitoes and other bugs. My spot was shaded and the spots can be private or close depending on which one. The bathrooms and showers are fairly run down. Lexi. But all in all is was not too bad. I just wish dogs could go on the beaches.

I felt it was only appropriate to review one of my favorite state parks for my 1000th review…read more This park has an extensive history dating back to the Chumash Native American inhabitation. These people lived here long before European explorers arrived. The park was purchased in 1965 by the State of California and made a state park. Prior to it becoming a state park, the land was used for agricultural use as well as farming and dairy use. It consists of 8000 acres of cliffs, seven miles of shoreline, coastal plains, canyons and hills. There is such a peaceful and calm vibe that you feel as you enter the park. As you enter through this colossal Eucalyptus forrest, you are mesmerized with their size. Clouds flow through the forrest and open up to the mighty Pacific Ocean. I always feel like I am entering a different world when I come here. There are so many fun trails to hike at ocean level, mountain level etc. Abundant wildlife is everywhere. You can also just take leisurely walks and enjoy the beauty of the ocean. Plenty of places to picnic, and a small beach to hang out with family and friends. There is also a small campground but what a great place to camp! Dogs are allowed but need to be on a leash. My first time out here was back in 2021. I mainly walked the Bluff Trail and took in the wind shaped jagged cliffs, caves, and rocky shore. I then completed a long beach walk on the strand that led from the park to the shores of Morro Rock. I saw so many dead jellyfish which was odd. I also saw huge turkey vultures. The next summer I took a recommendation from a worker at a local coffee shop. He told me all about Coon Creek trail. I started on this trail but it was pretty flat and I wanted something a little more challenging. I saw a sign for Oats Peak Summit and I went for it. A steep climb but so worth it at the top. Views were incredible on this ultra sunny day. Last summer I took my hubby with me and we decided to hike Valencia Peak. Hiking from sea level up to 1,347 feet proved to be a challenge but such a fabulous reward at the top. I could have spent the day up there just taking in the 360 degree views of the ocean, Morro Bay, Los Osos, and the SLO valley in the background. We absolutely loved this hike! If you find yourself lucky enough to be visiting the central coast, be sure to check out this phenomenal state park. It's truly one of California's finest offerings. Most of all remember to pack in and pack out - LEAVE NO TRACE.

Gold Fashioned A…read moremere fifteen miles west of SLO sits Montaña de Oro, which is one of California's largest state parks at a whopping 8k-acres. And the cherry on top of all that acreage, is a nice seven-mile stretch of California coastline. The Good: *Shockingly--free admission! *Superlative views of rocky shores, cool ocean breezes, and plenty of vitamin sea for everyone. *Bluff Trail is the best way to take advantage of those aforementioned seven miles of shoreline; easy, flat and nonstop ocean views. *Spooner's Cove is a great little beach to have a picnic at (pit toilets available). *Restrooms throughout the park *Mountain biking trails *Campgrounds & environmental camps available The Meh: *Dogs only allowed at Spooner's Cove and campgrounds, but we saw plenty along the trails. I guess it's not heavily enforced, but you take your chances. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ *A few AC parking lots but it's gonna be mostly edge of the shoulder parking. Please pay attention to any signage to avoid tickets/tow. *Little to no shade along the trails, which normally wouldn't be an issue as it's along the coast, but even the coast can get warm. So bring ya waters. The Ugly: *Very popular place and can fill up fast, so don't dilly-dally and get here early. Conclusion: Amazing park with fantastic views, but with a bit of a people problem.

Great place to stroll. Saw some whales. The walkway was clean with beautiful flowers. The trail…read morewas easy to navigate gate. Spectacular views of pacific coast. It's a must. Wear comfortable shoes hats and water. Donation is optional. Free admission

On my annual trip to Cambria, this trail walk is a must. It's so beautiful! They have a very nice…read morewalkway that borders the ocean on one side and rolling hills on the other side. When your on the trail closest to the water, a lot of times you can find seals, or birds, or if you look way in the distance, whale spouts. Along the trail they have really cool driftwood made beaches for you to sit and just take it all in. The tide pools by the homes are fun to walk around and experience as well. It's just a breathtaking walk. On my last trip it was really neat to see all these people out painting. I loved watching them create their masterpieces. I would almost love to find out if they are for sale. Some of them were amazing that I would love to have in my home! I definitely recommend walking this trail. It's a very easy flat loop to walk.